Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)
Medium ConcernAlso known as
The concern
A 2015 Nature study found CMC disrupts gut microbiota, promotes low-grade intestinal inflammation, and increases obesity and metabolic syndrome risk in mice. Human data is limited but growing.
What to look for on labels
This ingredient may appear under any of the following names or codes on product labels:
- Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC)
- carboxymethylcellulose
- cmc
- e466
- cellulose gum
- sodium carboxymethylcellulose
Other emulsifiers to know about
Polysorbate 80
MEDIUMA 2015 Nature study found polysorbate 80 disrupts gut microbiota, promotes low-grade inflammation, and accelerated obesity and metabolic syndrome in mice.
Brominated Vegetable Oil
HIGHFDA revoked authorisation for BVO in July 2024 after studies showed it accumulates in the body and causes harm to the thyroid.
Polysorbate 60
MEDIUMSame class of emulsifier as polysorbate 80.
Data sourced from IARC, FDA, EFSA, WHO and EWG public data. For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical or legal advice.